31 July 2011

The players on Saturday did not participate or did so only in the final stretch of the match against Manchester United have exercised this Sunday morning at the RFK Memorial Stadium in Washington. The team started this afternoon for Miami

The only training session on Sunday took place this morning at the stadium where he usually plays DC United at RFK Memorial Stadium in Washington.

In this training, the owners have not participated in the match against Manchester United, who have worked since eleven in the morning in the gym, where, as usual after defeating a game in which they have completed a recovery session.

Guardiola has worked with four first team players (Piqué, Xavi, Pinto and Jeffren) and seven Barca B (Masip, Carmona Espinosa Balliu, Riverola, Muniesa and Armando). The Rondos, some exercise ball possession and a partidillo where they played 5 on 5 and one half, have drawn the content of training an hour.

After the morning training session and a joint press conference Puyol , Busquets and star Kobe Bryant of the Lakers, scheduled for the 13h time (U.S.), the expedition will go to Miami where the team will not train until Monday August 1st. (via FCBarcelona.cat)

It is confirmed that the midfielder, who was injured during the match against Manchester United, suffered a hamstring tear in the left thigh. The estimated downtime will be between 4 to 5 weeks.

After the ultrasound was performed once at the hotel after the game, the Club Medical Services confirmed that the '20 'Barca suffered a hamstring tear in the left thigh. An injury, it, it will be removed from the pitch during a period of approximately four to five weeks.

Thus, it is confirmed the initial diagnosis of the club's medical services in the first scan that was done to the player in the same stadium. Remember that the '20 'FC Barcelona was injured only when the ball ran to contest in 41 minutes. Then, Afellay put his hand on her left thigh and felt the injury. He was replaced by Isaac Cuenca.

So far this preseason, Ibrahim Afellay has participated in four games. In all cases, the midfielder has played in a centreforward as a winger. (via FCBarcelona.cat)

The Portuguese sports newspaper highlights the disappointment with the presentation of Sporting Lisbon, which won 0-3 at Valencia, noting that helps defeat the negotiations to sign Barcelona's Jeffrén Suarez

The paper 'A Bola' claims that after his showy defeat, the Lions Club wants to "ensure fast," the hiring of Spanish football, a native of Venezuela, to strengthen its defense and could be announced within days.

The three goals for Valencia in a friendly on Saturday were for the press Lusa, a bucket of cold water on Sporting, who wanted to show fans all reinforced that aims to restore old wins after a season more than loose and plagued by internal problems.

But with the third highest box-office history Alvalade Stadium, which filled more than 50,000 spectators, the Lions went "from euphoria to sadness in 90 minutes," as summarized by the daily 'Record'.

"Faced with a lion just beyond recognition, he adds, the Spanish team spoiled the party" with goals from Bernat (min. 5), Soldier (31) and Piatti (42).

They were "three punches in the face of people," titled "O Jogo" among the avalanche of press criticism against the club Alvalade, also accused of "letting the lion in the cage" and take "a hard lesson" of Valencia.

One of the team's new signings Lisbon, the Spanish Diego Capel, which premiered at the friendly, took iron defeat and declared that the whole is still in "growth phase" and you better see the problems now and not in official matches. (via SPORT)

The friendly match between FC Barcelona and Manchester United left a record crowd of spectators to the delight of the organizers of the friendly tournament 'World Football Challenge'

No less than 81,807 spectators came to FedEx Field, Landover (Maryland), where the game was played, leaving a box office of more than 10 million.

Attendance is the largest ever recorded in a football match in the Washington area, which until now had been 72,368 spectators, who came to see the friendly played between Real Madrid and the local MLS team, the DC United, in 2009, and also had the same scenario.

The advance by the coaches and players from both teams, the match was not going to fall into the category of revenge, since it was a friendly, though they sought each victory, 2-1 at the end the favorable Manchester United stayed in the background to the success of assistance.

The spectators, who were divided in their preferences, and came to the field wearing all kinds of shirts and caps to make it clear who they were followers, were praised by both Alex Ferguson, Manchester United and by Josep Guardiola, Barcelona .

"Played down the result against Barcelona, ​​it really is I'm very pleased how the team has work to prepare well and the great support we have received from thousands of fans," said Ferguson.

No fewer than 280,730 spectators were distributed to see the five parties that contested the Red Devils, and who were victorious in each, returning to England, unbeaten in the preseason.

The defending champions in the Champions League can not say the same thing at the conclusion of the two friendly matches they still have yet to play against Guadalajara and America, respectively, both from Mexico because they could not start with a win, but if the claim were key of thousands of spectators formed a special atmosphere in the stands from the field.

Like Ferguson, Guardiola stressed the importance of this type of friendship as critical to experiment with different schemes and make the fans have a good spectator sport.

"We played with many young and we have done well all game, the first half we lacked a little more long position and a little more speed, but this heat has to be understood. Ideally, this situation is that we can Use as many changes, "said Guardiola. "This experience has had (younger players) is very important."

Guardiola also acknowledged how excited he was to see Barca jerseys everywhere and impressed by the thousands of fans who came to the camp to watch the game.

"Having a stadium where they have grown to more than 80,000 people to watch the match with Manchester-Barcelona is a gem, a gift to us," said Guardiola. "If you also come with our shirts is that we really really want." (via SPORT)

FC Barcelona undone the possible signing of goalkeeper Esteban Andrada, Argentine who plays for Lanus, the high amount asked the assembly to the Barcelona club.

Similarly, the entity incorporating parking Blaugrana striker's Boca Juniors, Sergio Araujo, Guardiola's team. And that is the square front needed to cover the FC Barcelona has been occupied by Alexis Sanchez with the priority of bringing a player in that position has already been covered. (via SPORt)

More and more and better. And not all fit. Whether they cause low or because they prefer a club that guarantees them more options to reach the first team, many promising young FC Barcelona are a change. The quarry not only nourishes Barca players to Pep , to other greats of the Premier, Calcio and la Liga.

The last European club has 'fish' in Sant Joan Despi is Lazio , which has been Keita Balde (born 1995). The striker will be reunited in Italy with former Pol Garcia (95), central left-hander who has signed for Juventus , and Mauro Icardi (93), center forward who left the Juvenl A last January to go to Sampdoria .

In London match too many Catalans. Cameroon striker Gael Etock (93) has gone to Chelsea , the end Cristian Ceballos (92) signed for Tottenham and the side Bellerín Hector (95) and inside Jon Miquel Toral (95) have staged the escape from summer to accept supply Wenger to join the Arsenal .

The League has also been the fate of many homegrown. Striker Pol Roigé (94), which did not have to Barca will play in Real Madrid , while two of his last year in Juvenil B , goalkeeper Pol Busquets (94) and defender Aitor Ruano (94) , will in the Athletic . The midfielder Pepe Palau (92) and the central Antonio Cristian (95) military in Villarreal , the goalkeeper Toni Casamayor (93) and the winger Mara (95), in Malaga , and defenders Marc Navarro (95) and Pau Belana (95), the medium Roger Canadell (93) and forwards Ramon Saavedra (96) and Sebastian Leguizamon (96), among others, at Espanyol . The market does move promises. A lot. (via MD)

The exazulgrana values ​​its new stage in Bruges, talks about the new talents and his friend Cesc, who does not recommend signing

For technical quality, Víctor Vázquez (Barcelona, ​​1987) was named to succeed at Barca next to his generation Messi and Pique , who now wait for Cesc , another member of a cadete unforgettable. He could be, but in a few weeks and has earned respect in Bruges . Thursday had a big goal in the preview of the Champions League and now debuts in the League with a deserved Belgian label crack.

How are you doing for Halloween?

I'm fine, playing closer to the area in Barca B. Football is easier in the sense that it is so technical and that makes me stand out more. We played a 4-3-3 and put me inside right or left

Say it is the crack team ...

It is Israeli Lior Rafaelov that comes from Maccabi Haifa and it would be as a Nolito. We are the two more technical

So is it true that not everything is just at the club?

I was surprised about all the equipment, rather than football. Brugge works with a style similar to Barcelona, ​​with the same rules and the same seriousness. The philosophy is similar. Which convinced me that this would be so I cheated and this is surprising me a lot. Looks great. Will have to see how it goes in the league opener

The most important was that I scored Thursday against the Qarabag because it was match of the UEFA. The other four were in pre-season friendlies. When you come Barca beams with confidence

Did you turn down substantial offers to go to Bruges?

Racing, Deportivo, Zaragoza, Espanyol, Osasuna...but any superior offer at club level. I don't speak of money. For me the Brugge is as an Atlético one in Spain, a team with the dream to play in Europe

Will was disappointed in Barcelona?

Disappointed, no. But sad for not coming up. The club has always treated me well, I have no complaints. I would have liked to stay, but I had taken a year ago would not be possible. My chance came when I got injured, the February 8, 2009 in the Mini against Villarreal B. And now there are players with the same quality, but younger and it is normal to trust them. For my part I knew might not give one hundred percent, but insist that what hurt me most were the fourteen months of injury.

What goals does your team?

We intend to win a title, especially the League, who have five years without winning it. But the important thing now is to get into the Champions League. We talked. Here we talk and talk all around. In the club, being in the subsidiary, not professional and I felt even here it.

Do you have a competitive team?

For the level I've seen in Belgium are certainly among the top three.

Would you ask the club?

Yes, it speaks volumes about the club. People are very fanatical about the team and city. They are like mad with my girlfriend and me because we are the only Spanish in the club. They are very grateful. They ask me how the club, they see very far. This failure three passes and nothing happens, do not squeak. If you steal a ball and then give you a pass good God.

Why has the dorsal '13 '?

I would have liked to take the '10 ', but I had the Moroccan Nabil Dirar, a major player here.

You played with Cesc, how does the theme of his move to Barca?

It is a difficult issue. I would sign not now. And not by quality, which is unquestionable, but Thiago is a very high level. It is a good option, but spend so much money for a player who does not need in a position too. Also, I feel bad for Thiago, because he is winning. In any case, if signs him, the club would gain a player who has technical, arrival to the area and knows the house well and his companions.

What has been your best step in his thirteen years at the club?

The promotion to the Segunda B with Pep Guardiola and the juvenil stage because gain everything.

The Arsenal manager, Arsène Wenger played down the fact that Cesc Fabregas to leave the game between his team and Boca Juniors at half-as-spectator, noting that the Arenys' deeply loves the club "

"Nothing has changed since Friday, there is no specific deadline until 31 August. This is not like throwing a rocket into space," explained the technician on the negotiation with FC Barcelona for the transfer of the Spain international.

"Cesc likes this club deeply and profoundly Barcelona likes too. A player may like honest two clubs. But he cares a lot for Arsenal and that is why I hope we can keep it," he added.

But the English press notes that his move to the middle part of the match between Boca Juniors and Arsenal is not a man who still deeply loves his club and mention a "loss of faith." (via SPORT)

The footballer from Rome recognized for Don Balón that feel happy when Barça is interested in me"

José Ángel sounded for several days for FC Barcelona. Finally it was the Rome of Luis Enrique who moved tab to hire, but the player recognizes that the interests of Barca glad. "The truth is that I lived the talks on the sidelines all. They were my agent and Sporting that led negotiations. I would not speak of disappointment because I did a lot of illusions. I am happy the day that Barcelona is interested in you, as happens to any player. At the end did not work, but not over the world. Barcelona are a great team but there are many sets of high level, "said the magazine 'Don Balón". Although questioned about whether at some point was near the FC Barcelona admits: "No, in no time. The issue of transfer is always very long and I did not saw so much to say about the press."

The former couple took Thanked Sporting Luis Enrique confidence: "I am overjoyed that put the interests Luis Enrique, a very important player at Sporting Gijon and Barcelona. I've always tried a player and coach of his stature is notice me." (via SPORT)

Manchester United, who beat Barcelona 2-1 at Washington on their official website includes a friendly match report begins with an expressive "no Messi, no problem"

The absence of the Argentine star of Barcelona, ​​as well as other holders Barça, is considered key in the outcome of the meeting.

"Two months after the headache of the final of the Champions League (where they lost 3-1), United fans have something to celebrate against Barcelona: The Reds defeat the European champions 2-1 in FedEx Field in Washington, "says the chronicle.

But Manchester was recognized that not only the absence of Messi. "Without your brain Argentine (and without Xavi, Dani Alves, Javier Mascherano, Gerard Pique and Carles Puyol), Barcelona lost a lot of creativity and movement that broke the Red in the final of the Champions."

"Of course, this game does not really matter, despite efforts by local media to consider it a rematch of the final at Wembley (...) It's really just a preseason game for Sir Alex's men but vital, view of the crash eight days with Manchester City in the Community Shield, "he adds.

Manchester United's win against Barcelona "does not erase the memories of the Champions League final is a psychological blow and significant in the battle for the supremacy of European football," admits the writer in the English club page. (via SPORT)

As reported in 'people.co.uk' midfielder Arenys plans to register his farewell in a video dedicated to the fans of Arsenal

'People' says the president of FC Barcelona has shortened his trip to America, where FC Barcelona made the traditional summer tour to return to Barcelona in the hope that this week there are major changes in bargaining by Cesc Fabregas.

Barca expected to finally accept expects Arsenal Cesc offerings and is optimistic the transfer occur and be dismissed from the fans 'gunner' and appreciate your support and understanding through a video recording. (via SPORT)

Josep Guardiola, despite the defeat, was pleased with the performance of his players and especially the great form of midfielder Thiago Alcántara, who scored the honor.

"Thiago is in those moments everything that puts it shoots, but piano, piano," said Guardiola. "He is very young and still has considerable scope to grow as a footballer." Guardiola said he had to protect the young talent of the team, because that was his family, but understood that should continue to work hard to earn the minutes you can give the team.

"I have no doubt that you will receive playing time, but whenever the win with his effort," said Guardiola. Catalan coach was happy with the performance we had the team, especially in the second half when they dominated the ball more and created more chances.

"I think that overall we played a good game, especially in the second half we did really well," said Guardiola. "Maybe we lacked in the first longer have possession of the ball and a little more intensity," he added.

However, Guardiola said he understood the players for the conditions in which they had played the game with a high temperature and high humidity. "We have also given the opportunity to the young talents of our youth and it is very important because everyone has done a great job," said Guardiola.

"We must not forget that we were missing key players within the team because of injuries and still be on vacation," he said. (via MD)

The Portuguese winger Nani, scored the first goal for Manchester United in a friendly match they won 2-1 at Barcelona, ​​said the team had completed a U.S. tour.

"The victory against Barcelona allowed us to close a very positive throughout the season we have done in the United States," said Nani, who after 22 minutes got the 1-0 to Manchester United. "The team played great football in the five games they played."

Nani recognized that the key to the victories had been in good physical condition who had acquired since the beginning of the preseason.

"It's the best way to reach the league competition when they begin within several weeks in England," said Nani.

The Portuguese player also had words of praise for the work done by the Spanish goalkeeper David De Gea, who turned out as a starter for Manchester United and was one of the highlights.

"He has proven that despite his youth, has already acquired experience and can play under pressure," said Nani. "Moreover, its adaptation and identification with the team is getting better."

Meanwhile, Michael Owen, who scored the victory, which marked the 76th minute and could have won the third minute off, said the credit had been the whole team and especially his fellow Tom Cleverley, who was the one who recovered the ball in midfield.

"The great merit was Tom (Cleverley), who recovered the ball and surprised the Barcelona defender with a perfect pass that I addressed only the doorman (Victor Valdes) and easy mark," said Owen, former Real Madrid. (via SPORT)

The veteran Scottish manager Alex Ferguson was delighted with how his team, Manchester United, won 2-1 against Barcelona in a friendly match of the tournament "Herbalife World Football Challenge" played at FedEx Field, Washington

"Of course we're happy to have gotten the win, but it is most important, but they can go home with good form after the work in the U.S. tour," said Ferguson. "All the players have done a great job,"
Manchester United returned home unbeaten after five victories in the games against the New England Revolution (4-1), Seattle Sounders (7-0), Party MLS All-Star (4-0) and 2-1 win against FC Barcelona, ​​his executioner in the last final of the Champions League by UEFA.

"It's a rewarding dose of moral returning home to begin in two weeks, the competition for the Premier with a win against FC Barcelona," said Ferguson. "No doubt we have a good shape and the objectives we set at the start of the tour."

As for the game against Barcelona, ​​Ferguson said the team had played smart and came to praise the work done by the Spanish goalkeeper, the former Atletico Madrid, David De Gea, when removed from the holder.

"It turned to be very safe in the decisive moments and has imposed its presence between the sticks," said Ferguson. "The goal by Thiago could do nothing."

The veteran coach admitted that the Red Devils made winning the game did not mean that they could draw broad conclusions.

"To be honest, both teams did a lot of changes and this is very difficult for you to give importance to a result," said Ferguson, who admitted he had seen Barcelona in the same line of great team. "Especially in the second half when they had more ball control and made more pressure." (via SPORT)

Barca prepare a final offer for Cesc to contribute the sum of Arenys
Arsenal seems resigned to losing his captain

Arsenal will make the idea of ​​inevitable farewell and Cesc Fabregas and assumes that the transfer of his captain be rushed at any time. The player dealt the final blow on Friday informing them, accompanied by his representative, Darren Dein, who gave up part of their salary to the club so that the supply would fit their economic needs. The presence at the top of Arsene Wenger and CEO Ivan Gazidis certified not think backing up, and afterwards admitted chairman Peter Hill-Wood.

In Washington, the president Sandro Rosell, Josep Maria Bartomeu vice president and sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta not hide their satisfaction with the huge gesture than Arenys starred on Friday, similar to that of Javier Mascherano almost a year ago when I wanted to change Liverpool Barcelona . Now, club executives, led by Antoni Rossich CEO, have received specific instructions to make numbers and produce the final offer. According to unofficial sources, Cesc give up a million for each of the five seasons he signed. Five 'kilos' which would complete the 40 Arsenal claim again and again. The only differences arise from the valuation of the two homegrown Barca Miquel Toral Jon Bellerín and Hector, who have gone to Arsenal.

The president of the Arsenal set Monday morning as the day for the deal, while Wenger handed the negotiations until 5 August, a week before they start the Premier. Barca settle the saga concluded during the week. Santpedor coach sighs have Cesc for Spain Super Cup against Real Madrid to be played on 14, the first leg at the Bernabeu, and 17, the return of Camp Nou.

Wenger, however, yesterday made a last desperate attempt for attention to Cesc, but sinresultado one. Aware that his tab at the club will be greatly shortened, the French gave him a blank check to the completion of the friendly match against Boca Juniors for the Emirates Cup stressed once again that does not want to do without. "If it is demonstrated that Cesc is committed to this club and wants to stay, there will be money that makes you leave Arsenal because we are not in a position to sell our players," he said. Find something that has not and is not money, but the commitment that the player has given the club.

The coach admitted again that the player "deeply loves Arsenal," but also passionate about the club. "It's an honest player, able to love two clubs at the same time. He cares about Arsenal and I hope I can maintain this position," he said. When some media try to turn the page challenged by a new captain, Wenger grimaced set apart from the inevitable.

Fabregas did not hide from the fans 'gunner'
Yesterday the fans of Arsenal. The Catalan midfielder took a seat in the stands at the Emirates Stadium to witness the first match of the tournament team presentation 'gunner', which ended in a draw (2-2) at Boca Juniors. The theory is still not recovered from a sore muscle. The practice, however, maintains that the player is closer to say goodbye. The captain did not want to risk an injury that spoiled his move and has decided not forced, without ceasing to be politically correct. Friendly games and pass when just two weeks left for the start of the Premier League, on day 13 at Newcastle, Cesc still not having played a single minute. For now, he is content with doing your homework alone and in the gym waiting to catch the plane to the Nou Camp. (via MD)

Spanish-Brazilian midfielder, scorer of the season with four goals, believes the team has played "to win" and that the team should be picking up the pace of competition gradually

Thiago Alcántara do not stop smiling. In addition to the passes usually impossible to do and leave the technical details on the field, has now added another facet: the goal.And is that Thiago has four goals of the five that has marked the club during the preseason. Saturday's goal against Manchester United has been, however, one of the most beautiful.

"We played to win despite being a friendly," said a satisfied Thiago for their work and team play. But the Spaniard has missed "a bit of arrival" in attacking zone and added that the priority of the team during this preparation is to "pick up the pace." As for his good sweet time in front of goal explained "I am fortunate to have" and one of the keys is "keep trying" and not stop trying.

Here are some of the statements of other players in the game:

Pedro

"We're in good line. Overall the game was good for us. I'll take the team's work."

"We dominated and we have borne the brunt of party. Almost always we have controlled. "

"The pitch was slow and heavy and the heat has not helped."

"Thiago is a good form and also combined with goals, but must keep working."

Valdés

"I'll take the role of youth players. "

"We played well, with some occasional errors, but the work has generally been very good."

Fontàs

"The field was slow and very hot. It has served to continue to evolve and taking minutes."

"I keep working and prove in every game if the coach wants to trust me to do."

"Thiago has been a goal. Is a sweet moment. He is scoring goals and I am very happy for him. It's a great player and a very great person. Is demonstrating the great player he is." (via FCBarcelona.cat)

The Argentine club craves the arrival of Barcelona Milito while not rule out ending his football career in which his birth club

Gaby Milito wants to end his career at Independiente Argentine club where he started as a player and where he played from 1997 until 2003. Barcelona are aware that Barca will not have the continuity you want as a player and both military and crave the Argentine club to reach an agreement.

However, the main problem is the economic difficulties facing the club interested in the squad. Despite the four and a half million Argentines who receive from the sale of Kun Aguero with Manchester City, Independiente can not take care of 90 million buyout clause of Barcelona with the rest waiting for the representative of player, Eduardo Gamarnik, get a free agent to sign Milito and finally fulfill the illusion of two parts.

And the Argentine club, in addition to signing Ernesto Farias has to fix the stadium Libertadores de America, which Independiente is not too full coffers to sign the player.

And that despite the desire of the central part more minutes for FC Barcelona, ​​Pep Guardiola is difficult to tell with him in a more sustained since the Barca defense is well established as long as no heavy casualties on the computer. In addition, the player still has two or three years at the highest level with what you would like to continue his career at a club that has a chance to prove themselves over a longer football.

The Atletico Madrid, Diego Forlan, confirms the opportunity for the signing for Barcelona's Argentine team. "Milito told me something about the possibility of return to Independiente. I know the affection that is red and swollen it is, so I'm sure that must have really wanted, "he told Radio Rivadavia '¿.

"I would love to Independiente would be nice, and if Gaby is a great friend, but you want to be in Europe as long as possible," stressed the Uruguayan aware of the superiority of the European league against the other. (via SPORT)

The framework agreement is outlined, and next week will discuss the details in new contacts between Arsenal and Barcelona

The signing of Cesc Fabregas for Barca is poised to become a reality next week. Friday's meeting with the top player of Arsenal, Arsène Wenger and led by Ivan Gazidis, helped the club 'gunner' is resigned to run out his captain. The gate, therefore, is open and must now outline the final details for Cesc definitely bound to cross the Camp Nou. The basis of the negotiations are on and the player will have a role as it has decided to put his own money to fulfill the dream of playing again as Barca.

After two months of negotiations, Barca has decided to stand on a fixed 29 million euros. This amount was no longer move more. Arsenal, meanwhile, insists the 40 million. All parties have already found a solution to iron out these eleven million difference. Through variables and the possible incorporation of sponsors, Barca would pay six million, which would reach 35 million and five to reach 40, would leave the player himself.

The variables in this case will not be as exaggerated as in the case of Alexis Sanchez. Arsenal prefer to receive the money without conditions, so Barca could use different resources to achieve the six million variants with the entry into a game sponsor. The renewal of Dani Alves was able to close due to the presence of a sponsor and it is possible to be a way to exploit. The Blaugrana club is considering all the ways to reach 35 million euros.

Since then another five million would cover the 40 sought by the Arsenal player's salary would come out. Cesc had a done deal since the last stage of Joan Laporta five-year contract at a rate of six million euros per season. Barca will keep the length, but the player will no longer enter a million per season. Therefore, the waiver of the one million for each of the five years resulting in five "kilos" which will go to Arsenal to complete the transfer.

The formula is identical to that followed by the season Javier Mascherano going to leave Liverpool. The vice president, Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed that Argentina had been reduced by 20 percent the salary to play for Barca and Cesc will be discounted a similar figure. It's the price you will pay, as long as Arsenal finally decided not to give in and accept the sale for less than the 40 million that has always requested.
Fàbregas pay five million for playing in Barca and its cache may also suffer.

The player has a huge Asian market acceptance, as was proven in his last trip to Indonesia to promote a signature cookie. The Premier League is the championship that has more fans in Asia and advertising revenue could suffer player, but his dream of playing in the Nou Camp is above everything.

His arrival at Barcelona can also benefit other economic facets. For example, is negotiating the renewal Cesc with Nike, the sportswear firm that serves the boots, and their presence in the world's best team can help you get a contract to increase either the U.S. multinational or another Many brands to look interested in their products.

In any event, Cesc will stop to make a lot of money to play in Barça. In the Arsenal it charges the six million euros for season that Laporta had guaranteed him/her and that it will reduce up to the five annual. For not speaking of the offers that it has underrated in England. Especially, that of Manchester City that put him on the table a contract of 12 millions for season that rejected when prevailing the sport interest.

In total, the amount of the operation of his move to Barca will amount to 60 million euros: the 35 which puts the club Catalans by transfer, in addition to the 25 million tab for the five-year contract. Barcelona entity will save 30 million over the initial operation he planned to Arsenal. The Gunners sought input transfer 60 million and the club the player would have paid 30 million for five years. In total, 90 million that the club has reduced to 60. (via SPORT)

European Club Association proposes to distance themselves from UEFA itself and create a tournament from 2014

Barca supports the intent of the ECA, the European Club Association, formed after the split of the G-14, forcing both UEFA and FIFA to radically change their relationship with the football bodies. The president of the ECA, the former German footballer Karl-Heinz Rummenige and Sandro Rosell himself, Vice President, consider that the current Champions League should generate far more income for European clubs that participate in it and take seriously, along with the other teams in Europe (Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester United, Milan, Inter, Arsenal, etc.) to create a European league to replace the Champions League.

This is a proposal that has always been on the minds of the major players in European football, but UEFA, in turn, satisfied the clubs distribute more pieces of the pie. Now, back to the big clubs think that those revenues would be larger if the rights of the competition have their own clubs. The ECA will organize the tournament, drafted the regulations, hire the referees and cede the rights to a company for distribution internationally.

However, ACE maintains his great battle with FIFA. Rummenige recently labeled this body, quote, "corrupt." Barca also denounces the abuse that make the FIFA and their associations, as RFEF or CBF, in international matches. A study of ACE shows that the average number of days that international players spend with their teams went from 107 days per year before the World Cup to 137 days after the World Cup tournament. That is, each time, players of the major clubs spend more time with your selections, almost the same with their clubs.

ACE wants to put an end to these abuses because they are the clubs who pay the players cards and received a paltry consideration in return. They want the international calendar is reduced to a minimum, the selections pay the proportional part of the form players in terms of days outside of their clubs and, above all, the FIFA and national team insurance pay to cover any injury.

The key to the success of this revolution, which will be launched in late August at the meeting with UEFA and FIFA soon to is the fifteen large are united.

The UEFA ECA did explain that a pact for Brazil could just play a friendly in their territory with the international play abroad and surprisingly, has enabled Spain to play two out of Europe in 2010 and two in 2011, United States and Venezuela. The tax collection effort of the selections is what unnerves the members of ACE and that makes the calendar each year is more compressed with the damage caused to the clubs. (via SPORT)

The month of December, which was the initial choice, has been dismissed by the Barca calendar saturation

The first team has yet to play a friendly match Qataris land as part of the contract for sponsorship of Qatar Foundation. However, finding a date that will go well with the Catalans will be difficult, because if the season goes well and make it to the finals of the Champions League and Cup, the Pep Guardiola will have played 74 games, making the calendar in a madness.

After discarding the initial date of December when the club will have a schedule saturated by the World Club is looking for a new alternative in terms of date and also a rival. The contract between the club and founding Barca Qatari forces to play a friendly season, but from 2012 will no longer be necessary to play in Qatar. Another condition is that they must be catarís who choose the opponent, being forced to accept Barca.

The Reus has earned its U.S. presence. He had to travel a hard road to convince Guardiola

Barca started the American tour without signing, but the attraction of seeing the evolution of the young branch. One that has surprised most pleasant was Isaac Cuenca. The striker has had to tan more than anyone before to convince Pep Guardiola to take this into account for the 'U.S. tour and why, for now, is responding.

Basin experienced a bitter experience last summer when he was the only outfield player Guardiola was the Asian tour. The Reus and goalkeeper Jordi Masip, which is also this time with the first team, were discarded, while the other components of the Barcelona B left for Asia. Isaac did not give up, but spent all of August on edge. Luis Enrique considered it desirable to be fogueara assignment after completing his time as a youth. Barca wanted to control closely and he intended military for a year in a Catalan team Second Division B. Badalona and Sabadell were interested in him, but the decision was delayed too. Finally, the set Harlequins, with the endorsement of Lluís Carreras and style of play good ball, took the cat to water ... but it was not until August 31.

Cuenca missed the first league match against the Lleida having no proper documentation yet, but on the second day left before the break to replace Eneko at Camp Centennial Badalona and dribbles left the audience open-mouthed .

Thereafter it became a key piece band playing both and occasionally half a point in the rise of Sabadell. An injury will not show in the final, although the club had already decided to repechage. Around the United States, Eusebio counting on him to give fresh air to the subsidiary. (via SPORT)

French is the Bull of Imam of his mosque not to follow the precept strictly and make it more bearable Muslim month of fasting

France's Eric Abidal, a devout Muslim fasting starts tomorrow requiring daily Ramadan and will run until August 29. That means the player will have to lift at dawn on the edge of five in the morning to perform the prayers and ablutions relevant, eating and drinking properly, so then keep the fast until sunset, approximately ten night.

During those hours of fasting, is strictly prohibited to eat or drink any liquid. Obviously this situation is completely untenable for an elite athlete and even more in the conditions is the issue in the US-Blaugrana in stifling heat of around forty degrees-what should be added that Abidal was operated a few months ago a tumor in the liver, so your body is not ready for this type of metabolic sacrifices.

Hence, Abidal has requested a bull imam of his mosque, to make more bearable the month of Ramadan which begins on August 1. The Frenchman has hosted a series of observations that includes the Koran and the ability to retrieve daily breakfast throughout the year. That is, during this month can break the fast in a way, as long as those days eventually recovered throughout the year. Have time until July 2012 METER to fulfill their vows with Ramadan.

Also contemplated is the exceptional cases of Muslims who are traveling and situations require them to change their schedule, as is the case with Abidal. In addition, compliance of Ramadan becomes more intense the last ten days, ie in this case we are talking between 19 and 29 August, when the player is already in Barcelona, ​​so that compliance be fasting much stricter.

In fact, the club itself has been told that in its present state, recovering from a tumor that has lost many pounds, it is totally unwise to make such sacrifices in one way it can end up paying strict health.

Abidal has already announced that all the laws that will mark Ramadan comes to where your body does it rise to 4.45 hours to start praying to Mecca ¿, but obviously ingest fluid during training and before and after games. In this case there will be no exception, as all games end later than ten o'clock at night, so you can eat copiously if desired.

The start of Ramadan coincides each year with the ninth lunar month of the Islamic calendar. "In summer it is very difficult because the sun rises early and later hiding," said the French side itself last year. The player has their own tricks to combat the worst times of the day, like making a long nap at lunchtime. And since in the fast should make exceptions, the defense will seek not to miss one of the prayers, as it did last year "there are seven daily prayers, five mandatory and two optional depending on if you can make at least with two other people. Also during this time there is also an optional prayer, which takes place about fifteen minutes after they finish eating. "

In the same case that the Blaugrana are Abidal Seydou Keita and Ibrahim Afellay, but within the club believe that these last two players can make quite bearable Ramadan as far as it goes, provided they comply with some exceptions such as drinking beverages isotonic during training or during the day. It is in the case of the French side, the club is particularly outstanding because their health is priority. (via SPORT)

Despite the defeat against United, Guardiola expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance and praised the efforts of the youngsters from Barça B.

“It’s a pity we didn’t have all the players available”, commented Guardiola after the game on Saturday night , though he refused to look for excuses and claimed he was “satisfied” with his team’s performance, adding: “I’m very pleased with how we played. We found it hard in the first half, but we improved in the second”.

One of the aims of the Tour is to make the American public appreciate Barça’s style of play: “one of my objectives was that you people all enjoy the way we play and that you can see us do just that”.

Returning to the game, Guardiola reckoned: “in general, we played very well, though we didn’t have enough possession in the first half”. Guardiola also believed that the hot and humid conditions didn’t help: “the players wanted to do the job, but they couldn’t quite manage it”.

Finally, the boss had words of praise for his youngsters and for the injured Afellay. (via FCBarcelona.cat)

Thiago is reaffirmed but cannot win the United. Barcelona came to play up to nine homegrown. Thiago scored a goal. Nani and Owen scored for United. Six Barça players repeat of the Wembley final.

Two contras (one in each part) was good Manchester United to conquer Barcelona in Washington. The Catalans, who left with six players who played the final at Wembley (only three of the English) finished with seven players with information about the subsidiary and Youth. The findings were contradictory. Barca dominated but lacked the punch enough to be imposed on the British team.

The first part was a suckling pig. No more. Barca came just before Nani just initialed a border against the law. His position, winning back the defense was more than doubtful. The Portuguese planted in the area of ​​Valdés in two strides and although the goalkeeper came to touch the ball, the shot ended up slipping under his legs. It was a goal, right, and United fans celebrated with the exhilaration of seeing your team win. But it did not fall in the mockery of the Catalans: the goal came two months and two days after the Wembley final, when what was at stake was too important: the Champions League.

Afellay, who had been the highlight of Barcelona, ​​as he heard the burst of the leg isquiotibialies izquieda. The Dutch contacted with Iniesta and Thiago too intermittent (so far). The two creators did not create a lucid, never saw the space necessary to be able to find Villa, who was drowned at the couple's central Manchester. Vidic and Evans were not, as a quiet De Gea, who spotted the shirt and even though the club tried it five times, but not necessary as the aim to guide them into the net.

A shot of Peter saved by the Atletico goal seemed to change the view needed after shower. The canary Iniesta took advantage of a ball that was meant for Villa, but eventually the attacker's feet often. The shot was blocked down and seemed to relaunch the Catalans in the friendly. United were stepping back, giving the ball club. So Iniesta and Thiago, supported by a prodigy named Keita controlled, but lacked depth.

Before Thiago equalized the game with a bang from beyond the front, the squad had learned from wonder to Don Andres, but ended his attempt to balloon over the net. With the 1-1, gave the impression that the club grew and could try to trace, but an error Busquets a wide delivery area struck against one who was executed for beating Owen smoothly Valdés. (via AS)

Barça’s young Dutch midfielder Ibrahim Afellay suffered a small muscle tear in his left thigh during Saturday’s friendly against Manchester United.

The injury came on 40 minutes, when the Barça number 20 pulled up holding his left leg as he felt his muscle go. He was then replaced by Isaac Cuenca.

The Club’s Medical services examined Afellay at the stadium where they made their first diagnosis and he will be given further tests at the team hotel, at which point the doctors will be able to determine exactly how long he will be out for.

Ibrahim Afellay has taken part in all four of the team’s pre-season games so far, playing out wide in all the games. (via FCBarcelona.cat)

Leo Messi is a global character, and received countless honors, the last of them was a huge caricature held in Barcelona by the artist Joan Vizcarra, the largest that has ever been painted on the Argentine footballer

"When we think of the exhibition said to offer something more conventional. We wanted to offer something different audience, and I thought to paint live. When thinking about a character was clear: The most rabid media and now Leo Messi" said after the last stroke Catalan cartoonist.

This last stroke has led to the closure of the exhibition 'With a V-Vizcarra, "a retrospective of the artist with more than 300 cartoons, which has been seen during the month of July in the Illa Diagonal.

The huge and fun Messi -3 meters high by 2 wide, appears drawn with Barca shirt, crown, and a gold ball feet.

"I wanted to take a sympathetic view of the character. A somewhat more extroverted Messi, a trust point in watching it, winking. And with the Barça shirt, not Argentina. Is the king of Barça" , said Vizcarra, best known for his work in the satirical magazine 'El Jueves'.

This part of the exhibition will be sold for charity for the Alex Foundation and the Foundation encourages, but before made a tour of Spain with the rest of the exhibition. (via SPORT)

The Frenchman Arsène Wenger, Arsenal, has said after the game presentation team to Boca Juniors in the Emirates (2-2) from their point of view, "nothing has changed since yesterday," referring to whether they have negotiations with Barcelona produced on Cesc Fabregas

Fabregas has not played in the first match of the Gunners to their hobby. The captain of the London has seen the evolution from the stands. Wenger, who yesterday called on "fix soon," the future of the midfielder, now insisted that "has not moved anything, one way or the other."

Wenger has spoken about Cesc and Samir Nasri, sought by Manchester City, and insisted that his idea is that both can continue at Arsenal.

"If it is demonstrated that Cesc is committed to this club and wants to stay, there will be money that makes you leave Arsenal because we are not in a position to sell our players," he recalled.

Arsenal coach has said he wants to keep the players he has on staff, beyond economic issues. "We want players to stay, that is very clear on our part," he said.

Cesc has explained that "cares deeply" at Arsenal, but also to Barcelona. "It shows that a player is honest, which is capable of loving two clubs at the same time. He cares about this club (Arsenal) and hopefully I can maintain this position," he insisted.

That is why Wenger has refused to answer the question of whether it is time to appoint new captain at Arsenal. "That's not my problem, but tomorrow we can play a good game. Fàbregas is not in my head now because tomorrow will not play, I see now why I have to worry about this," he assured.

Different media have reported that Barcelona Barcelona is not willing to increase its offer for the player (about 37 million euros), while Cesc Fabregas has decided to waive a portion of their salary to expedite the negotiations, something you've done in the past Argentina's Javier Mascherano for Liverpool to ensure their arrival at Camp Nou. (via SPORT)

The selection of the world champion, who started as head of the Cup series 1 has been drawn in Group I with Finland, Georgia, Belarus and France, following the draw made from 20.00 hours in the Park Marina da Gloria Rio de Janeiro (Brazil).

The last ball to leave was the world champion, which is framed by the only group of five teams.
The draws are unpredictable by nature and give way to all sorts of unexpected events. Before the meeting, and after pre-sorting by FIFA, Spain ranked as one of nine seeded and France, in a second group as annoying companion for anyone. The Gauls were the strongest in this package, so its inclusion in any of them involved one of the most awkward fall where he fell. Fifty-three European teams will have to fight after their classification into nine groups. A Ronaldo played the ball to draw the stronger teams. The first, of Croatia, the last of Spain. Before you came out of England as a murmur around the room because that would send Spain with France. Ronaldo pulled the ball that sends us to group I, consists of only five teams and the already framed in order of appearance Finland, Georgia, Belarus and the tricolor gala. The winners of the nine groups will qualify directly, while the eight best runners-up will contest a playoff to qualify four of them to close the quota of 13 classified over 53 European countries. (via REFE)

The FC Barcelona Foundation has strengthened its links with the Inter American Development Bank (IDB) following a meeting held in Washington.

Although the presentation of the agreement between the Fundació and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation captured most attention, the Club’s Foundation has also been busy on other fronts during the Tour so far and part of that work was the meeting held with the President of the Inter American Development Bank Luis Alberto Moreno and members of his team.

The meeting served as a chance to check the progress made since the two organisations signed an agreement earlier this year, which focussed principally on the project for building sporting facilities in 12 of the poorest areas of Rio de Janeiro, a commitment undertaken together with the NBA and the city’s council.

Luis Alberto Moreno expressed his satisfaction with the co-operation so far and also explained: “I have been surprised at the relevance that this Club has. I was recently in Egypt and Haiti and you could see Barça shirts everywhere”. He also referred to his visit to the Club earlier this year: “I went and saw them explaining that the hardest game to win was to beat poverty. From that moment I understood what was in their hearts”.

The Bank’s President reckons the Club can bring plenty to his own organisation: “we can teach in poor areas through sport -a thing as simple as the rules of building citizenship and that then helps us reduce violence which is a big problem in our countries”.

The Vice President of the Fundació, Ramon Pont also explained: “the Club has known how to exploit this successful period in our history to project our values”, insisting that although the Club is rooted within its own community “we have to be global, because we can offer a lot”. Club President Sandro Rosell, director general, Antoni Rossich and the director general of the Fundació, Josep Cortada, were also present at the meeting. (via FCBarcelona.cat)